> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.receptonic.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# SMS Capabilities

> Learn about SMS features, requirements, and pricing for your phone numbers

> [card] [Detailed SMS Documentation](https://docs.receptonic.com/automation-platform/calls-related/sms-capabilities.md)
>
> This is an overview of SMS features. For detailed instructions on sending SMS
> through automation flows, check our [Automation Platform
> Documentation](https://docs.receptonic.com/automation-platform/calls-related/sms-capabilities.md).

## Requirements

To send SMS messages, you need:

* An SMS-capable phone number
* Sufficient credits in your account
* Proper automation flow setup

## SMS Segments

SMS messages are split into segments:

* Each segment is 160 characters for standard ASCII text
* Or 70 characters for Unicode (special characters, emojis)
* Longer messages are automatically split into multiple segments
* You are charged per segment sent

For example:

* "Hello! How are you?" (16 chars) = 1 segment
* A message with 200 ASCII chars = 2 segments
* A message with emojis and 100 chars = 2 segments

## Costs

SMS pricing varies by:

* Destination country
* Number of segments
* Type of content (standard/unicode)

## Monitoring & History

Track your SMS activity in the dashboard:

* Delivery status
* Timestamp
* Number of segments
* Cost per message
* Recipient details
* Content preview

## Best Practices

1. **Message Length**

   * Keep messages concise
   * Monitor segment count
   * Use standard characters when possible

2. **Compliance**

   * Include opt-out instructions
   * Follow local regulations
   * Respect quiet hours

3. **Testing**
   * Verify number capabilities
   * Test delivery to different carriers
   * Monitor delivery rates

***

**Want to start sending SMS?** Check out our [automation platform documentation](https://docs.receptonic.com/automation-platform/calls-related/sms-capabilities.md) to learn how to set up SMS workflows.


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